NUJ protests against Murdoch BSkyB takeover on J30

NUJ members took part in a protest against the government's announcement to allow News International to takeover BSkyB on Thursday 30 June. The protest, outside the DCMS headquarters in London, took place took place alongside other J30 trade union activity.

The protest was organised by the NUJ, the Campaign for Press and Broadcasting Freedom and campaigning groups Avaaz and 38 Degrees.

Jeremy Dear, NUJ general secretary, said about the proposed Murdoch takeover:

"Rupert Murdoch's profit-at-all costs philosophy forces too many journalists to cut corners, compromise professional standards and set aside ethical conduct for fear of failing to deliver the sales demanded by executives. This model of journalism is not in the public interest – it serves only the accountants. Those jailed are victims of a culture which comes from the very top.

"The NUJ stands opposed to News Corporation's bid to extend its power. It is unacceptable that the BSkyB merger is even being considered whilst serious charges are outstanding.

"The NUJ wants the phone hacking scandal at the News of the World to be the subject of a full judicial inquiry, and the development of a media governed by public and not corporate interest."